This morning we took a nice 6 km walk to the medieval village of Montpezat de Quercy. Through fields of sunflowers, grapes and truffles the whole group walked along enjoying the scenery and each other. The village has been listed as a protected city, mainly thanks to its' 14th century college, which contains tapestries from the 16th century relating the life of St Martin. We took a short guided tour which led us through the town and then ended at the cathedral which housed the tapestries. In almost perfect condition, the tapestries are uncovered and hang at the back of the alter. After depositing our 2 euros for the lights, we all enjoyed the intricate designs and colors. Afterwards we had a wonderful picnic in a small park in the backyard of the priest's house, and then a visit to the local weaver, Janine Dassonval. Janine weaves beautiful tapestries on her floor loom. Each piece can take her over 2000 hours to complete, along with another 200 hours to tie off the ends.
Although there were all sorts of beautiful examples of her work hanging on the walls, my favorite was the aubusson tapestry she was working on. Filled with soft blues and greens, the image was a scene from an overgrown garden with lots of leaves and stems. I was also taken with her box full of old spools and bobbins - the master's materials under the loom!
This morning we took a nice 6 km walk to the medieval village of Montpezat de Quercy. Through fields of sunflowers, grapes and truffles the whole group walked along enjoying the scenery and each other. The village has been listed as a protected city, mainly thanks to its' 14th century college, which contains tapestries from the 16th century relating the life of St Martin. We took a short guided tour which led us through the town and then ended at the cathedral which housed the tapestries. In almost perfect condition, the tapestries are uncovered and hang at the back of the alter. After depositing our 2 euros for the lights, we all enjoyed the intricate designs and colors. Afterwards we had a wonderful picnic in a small park in the backyard of the priest's house, and then a visit to the local weaver, Janine Dassonval. Janine weaves beautiful tapestries on her floor loom. Each piece can take her over 2000 hours to complete, along with another 200 hours to tie off the ends.
Although there were all sorts of beautiful examples of her work hanging on the walls, my favorite was the aubusson tapestry she was working on. Filled with soft blues and greens, the image was a scene from an overgrown garden with lots of leaves and stems. I was also taken with her box full of old spools and bobbins - the master's materials under the loom!
Your posts have been so wonderful and informative. I have an interest in almost things you have seen and done on your weeks adventure....oh to be there with you all!!
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